The technical world is abuzz with predictions and expectation about the Electronic Entertainment Expo (commonly known as E3), which will take place between 5-7 June 2012. During the last two years, the software giant, Microsoft released the Kinect, thus making most of the headlines. This time around, Microsoft is expected to provide information about the upcoming Xbox 720, but, interestingly, rumor has it that Microsoft has something bigger in store.

If reports are to be believed, Microsoft is all set to release the Smart Glass at the E3 2012. There hasn’t been any official announcement, but reports have said that Microsoft has been in a frenzy to buy all domain names with the words “smart glass” in it. And after all, it is no secret that Microsoft has been trying to establish Windows as a streaming- friendly OS and the functions of Smart Glass (explained below) seem to fall in line with that aim.

While we don’t have a lot of official information about this technology from Microsoft itself, it is being touted as Microsoft’s reply to Apple’s AirPlay feature. So, what exactly is the Smart Glass? Honestly, nobody seems to be absolutely sure on that count. Earlier reports indicated that Smart Glass is a tablet which could be used to connect to an Xbox 360 and stream music or videos to a television set, using Xbox 360 as an intermediary.

However, later reports indicate that Smart Glass, is, in fact an app which can be used on tablets and phones running on Windows, Android and iOS. Using this app (or a physical tablet?), Xbox 360 users will be able to stream content directly from Netflix, Hulu and other similar applications. At the same time, users will be able to stream content from their smartphones to the television through the Smart Glass. Essentially then, the Smart Glass will act as a means through which the gaming console could be accessed remotely, making way for streaming content effortlessly.

We will have more information to provide about the Smart Glass once it is officially released by Microsoft. But besides that, what can we expect from the E3 this year? Well, unfortunately for gaming enthusiasts, Microsoft has announced that it won’t be releasing the Xbox 720 gaming console this year. Having said that, we can still expect some information about its features or other such details. Besides that, Microsoft might unveil the Xbox Music Service or Woodstock, which will allow users to share music across different platforms. The Woodstock might well be Microsoft’s desperate attempt to make up for the absence of the next Xbox gaming console.